As a consumer, you need accurate information on the prescription weight loss drugs available. Read on to learn more about these medications and what they can do for you. The information compiled comes from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the FDA, and MEDLINEplus. These are trusted sources which offer accurate information on diseases and drugs to the public.

Some people who suffer from obesity are unable to drop the pounds using the natural methods of changing their diet and exercising regularly. For these individuals, there are prescription medications approved by the FDA for the purpose of weight loss. According to the FDA, people who use prescription medications for weight loss are able to lose up to 10 percent of their starting weight, although this is just a rough estimate.

Each one of the prescription medications for weight loss work in much the same way—by minimizing the appetite. There is one exception which is Xenical. This drug was FDA approved in 1999 and is classified as a lipase inhibitor. Lipase is an enzyme that works by breaking down fat to be used by the body. The drug Xenical decreases body fat absorption by 30 percent by modifying lipase function. The fat is not absorbed into the body, therefore the body gets less calories. Like most all drugs, there are side effects. These side effects may include oily bowel movements, diarrhea, gas and cramping.

Another drug on the prescription market is Meridia. It was FDA approved in 1997 and reduces appetite by affecting brain chemicals. There are some risks that come with this drug, such as an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Therefore, individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure or other related conditions should not take Meridia. Less serious side effects that may be experienced on this medication include dry mouth, headache, insomnia and constipation.

There are various other medications available by prescription which were FDA approved years ago. Their approval was based on limited data obtained over the short term therefore extreme caution should be taken with these medications. These drugs include Desoxyn, Bontril, Adipex-P and Ionamin. All of these are amphetamine type drugs that carry risks, especially for anyone with glaucoma, hyperthyroid, high blood pressure or heart disease. Because of the effects these drugs should not be used longer than a few weeks at most. There is a serious risk of addiction, and the drugs do not help you to continue to lose weight once they are continued.

According to Dr. David Orloff, who is the director of the Division of Metabolic and Endocrine Drug Products at the FDA, there is no “magic pill for obesity.” He advises that the best approach is regular exercise and a healthy diet. Orloff also says that while this is the best course of action, taking the right weight loss prescription along with these lifestyle changes may help with your weight loss efforts.

Some drugs that were once on the market for obesity are now banned. In September 1997, fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine were available via prescription. The manufacturers took these drugs off the market after the FDA requested they do so. Findings indicated that these drugs could cause heart valve problems, and anyone who had been taking these medications were told to stop immediately and see their doctor for evaluation and treatment.

Prescription weight loss medications are available only to patients who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. If there are risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure present, the BMI can be 27 or higher. Before using any type of medication for weight loss, individuals should have a thorough consultation with their doctor. This is required for the drugs mentioned here as they are only available when prescribed by a medical professional.